Michigan neurosurgeon says women carry higher burden of often-hidden neurological illnesses

Post by : Saif Nasser

A Michigan-based neurosurgeon, Dr Jay Jagannathan, has cautioned that women are at increased risk of developing several brain and peripheral nerve conditions compared with men. He noted these disorders frequently progress insidiously and are commonly misinterpreted as stress, fatigue or hormonal fluctuations.

Posting on Instagram on October 26, Dr Jagannathan outlined a set of "silent" neurological problems that appear more often in women. He highlighted that conditions such as migraine, multiple sclerosis and autoimmune neuropathies have a higher prevalence among female patients than male ones.

Common but unnoticed disorders

According to Dr Jagannathan, ailments including migraine, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune-related neuropathies and small, often asymptomatic strokes can begin with subtle, easily overlooked signs. Initial symptoms—headaches, persistent tiredness, localized numbness, lightheadedness or mood alterations—can be mild and therefore ignored.

He emphasised that hormonal influences and differences in immune response affect women’s nervous systems and can obscure early clinical signals of neurological disease.

Early warning signs to watch

Dr Jagannathan urged attention to symptoms such as chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating or "brain fog," mood instability, tingling or loss of sensation, balance problems and visual disturbances. These complaints, he said, should prompt medical evaluation rather than being dismissed.

He commented, "Too often women attribute these changes to burnout or emotion. Yet such patterns can represent the initial phase of a neurological disorder. Listening to your body and seeking assessment is essential."

Why women are more affected

Health organisations, including the World Health Organization, recognise that migraines occur more frequently in women, a disparity largely linked to hormonal factors. Medication-overuse headaches are also reported more commonly in female patients.

Dr Jagannathan explained that estrogen and other sex hormones influence neural function, and that stronger immune responses in women may increase susceptibility to autoimmune attacks on nerve tissues.

The need for early check-ups

The neurosurgeon advised prompt clinical review when symptoms recur or persist. He said, "Recurrent headaches, unexplained numbness or changes in vision warrant timely medical assessment. Basic tests or imaging can identify problems early and reduce the risk of long-term damage."

He also highlighted the importance of managing vascular and hormonal health, since dysfunctions in these systems can directly impact cerebral function.

Awareness saves lives

Closing his post, Dr Jagannathan underlined that raising awareness is a protective measure rather than a source of alarm. His warning has attracted attention on social media and resonated with clinicians who stress that early detection and lifestyle measures can limit neurological deterioration.

Takeaway

Persistent fatigue, recurring headaches or subtle sensory and cognitive changes in women should not be dismissed. Early medical review, targeted investigations and appropriate management can help preserve brain and nerve health.

Summary:
Dr Jay Jagannathan, a neurosurgeon in Michigan, warned that women face higher rates of conditions such as migraine, multiple sclerosis and silent strokes. He urged attention to symptoms like fatigue, mood shifts and numbness because early diagnosis can reduce the risk of serious neurological harm.